Buzz
Except for the smallest car models, almost all vehicles are equipped with a hydraulic power steering system that makes steering easier for the driver. The power steering system includes several components: the rack and pinion connected to the front wheels, a piston inside the rack and pinion that moves with the pressurized fluid from the power steering pump to assist in steering, and a fluid reservoir located above the pump. (Without enough fluid, steering becomes more difficult and components like the pump, rack, and pinion are more prone to damage due to lack of lubrication). Therefore, it is crucial to regularly check the power steering fluid level and top it up as necessary.
Steps
Locate the fluid reservoir. If you experience difficulty turning the steering wheel or hear strange noises when turning, it could indicate that your power steering fluid is low. The fluid reservoir is usually found near the power steering system and is clearly labeled. The reservoir may be made of plastic or metal.
- If you can't locate the reservoir, refer to the owner's manual for guidance. While the power steering fluid reservoir is typically in the same location in most vehicles, newer models may place it elsewhere for economic or space considerations.
Check the power steering fluid level. If the fluid reservoir is made of transparent plastic, you can visually check the fluid level. If the reservoir is metal or if the plastic is too opaque, you will need to check the fluid level with a dipstick, usually attached to the cap.
- On some vehicles, the fluid level can only be accurately checked after the engine has been running for a short while, and occasionally you may need to turn the steering wheel in different directions a few times with the car stationary.
- On other vehicles, the dipstick or reservoir will show 'high' when the engine is running and 'low' after the engine has been turned off for a moment. Some vehicles may also have 'minimum' and 'maximum' markings indicating safe operating fluid levels. Always compare the fluid level to the standard.
Check the dipstick to determine the power steering fluid level. When using a dipstick to check the fluid level, first wipe off any excess fluid from the dipstick after removing it from the reservoir. Then, reinsert it and pull it out again to examine the level.
Inspect the color of the power steering fluid. Good power steering fluid should be clear, with an amber or light pink color.
- If the fluid appears brown or black, it’s contaminated, likely due to wear from rubber seals, gaskets, or O-rings. In such cases, take your car to a mechanic to check if any components in the power steering system, along with the fluid, need replacing.
- The fluid may appear darker than normal. If unsure, wipe the fluid on a cloth or paper towel after removing the dipstick. If the stain looks like normal fluid, your fluid is fine.
Add power steering fluid to the required level. If your vehicle has a marked gauge on the reservoir, you can top off the fluid to the 'hot' or 'cold' level. If you’re using a dipstick, add the fluid slowly to avoid overfilling the reservoir.
- Ensure you use the recommended type of power steering fluid for your car, as it will have the appropriate viscosity for your system.
- If you don’t have the correct fluid available and are in a pinch, you can temporarily use automatic transmission fluid. Automatic transmission fluid and power steering fluid are similar, except for color: transmission fluid is red or pink, while power steering fluid typically isn’t. (If you want to tell them apart, automatic transmission fluid leaks out quickly, which gives it its red or pink color.)
Be cautious not to overfill the power steering reservoir. It’s better to underfill than overfill. Power steering fluid expands when heated and works effectively. Overfilling the reservoir to the cap and then driving can cause excessive pressure, leading to problems and costly repairs.
Replace the reservoir cap. Depending on the manufacturer, you may need to push or twist the cap into place. Ensure the cap is tightly secured before closing the hood.
Advice
- Power steering fluid should be checked regularly. If you notice a significant drop in the fluid level, or if you have to add fluid frequently, there may be a leak in the power steering system. If you hear unusual noise when turning the steering wheel, it indicates that the power steering pump is critically low on fluid.
Warning
- Power steering fluid should be replaced at intervals specified in your car’s manual. Heat from the engine and surrounding environment will degrade its performance over time, leading to wear or tears in the system components. Replacing the fluid is much cheaper than replacing the power steering pump or rack and pinion system.
Things You’ll Need
- Cloth or paper towels
- Funnel
- Power steering fluid
